What spinal decompression and traction are
Traction is a controlled pulling force applied to the spine. It can be steady or intermittent, and it can be applied manually by a therapist or mechanically using a table. PT 1st uses an FDA-cleared Chattanooga decompression table.
“Spinal decompression” is the name commonly used for table-based traction with adjustable force, angle, and cycling. The goal of the table is to create a gentle stretch and unloading of the spine in a controlled position. The table can be used for both lumbar (low back) and cervical (neck) traction.
The table is intended to apply a pulling force that may support the treatment goals identified during your evaluation. It is not a standalone treatment, and it does not “rehydrate discs,” “reverse herniations,” or “repair” tissue. Table sessions are paired with exercise and education.
For a detailed comparison of spinal decompression and traction, see: Spinal decompression vs traction: What’s the difference?
Who may benefit (educational)
People sometimes explore decompression or traction therapy as part of a physical therapy plan for:
- Low back pain, including pain a physician has described as disc-related
- Pain that travels into the buttock or leg (radiating symptoms)
- Neck pain, including pain a physician has described as disc-related
- Pain that travels into the shoulder or arm
- People who want a structured, non-surgical, therapist-guided option alongside exercise
Whether it fits you depends on your evaluation. It is not right for everyone.
Who may not be a candidate
Your therapist screens for reasons decompression may not be appropriate at your first visit. This is a high-level educational list, not a diagnostic checklist:
- •Pregnancy
- •Recent spinal surgery, or spinal hardware/implants
- •Recent fracture or significant bone weakness, such as advanced osteoporosis
- •Spinal infection, tumor, or other serious medical conditions
- •Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms
Seek medical care right away for:
- •New loss of bladder or bowel control
- •Numbness in the groin area
- •Sudden or worsening leg weakness
- •Severe symptoms after trauma
These need medical attention, not a decompression session.
How the 10-visit decompression package works
$600 for 10 visits
The initial evaluation is included as visit 1 of the 10 visits. Each visit includes table time when appropriate, paired with exercise and education based on your evaluation and stage of care.
Package visits do not expire. The package is non-refundable.
The decompression package is self-pay (out of pocket) and is not billed to insurance. Call (323) 246-4616 with questions. View insurance & payment options.
Price as of October 2026. Call to confirm current pricing.
What usually happens across visits 1–10
This is a typical progression that is adjusted for each person. There is no promised timeline.
Visit 1 — Evaluation and screening
The evaluation is visit 1 of the package. History, goals, movement and neurological screen, a check for reasons decompression would not be appropriate, and a plain-language plan. Table time only if appropriate.
Visits 2–4 — Early sessions
Conservative settings. The therapist watches how you respond during and after each session. Positioning and comfort are adjusted.
Visits 5–7 — Building tolerance
Settings may be progressed based on response. Table time is paired with targeted exercise and movement education.
Visits 8–9 — Strengthening and home strategies
Exercise takes a bigger role. Home program and daily-activity strategies are reinforced.
Visit 10 — Re-check
Re-assessment against your starting point and goals. Discussion of next steps, which might be a home program, continued PT, or a referral back to your physician if appropriate.
Some people progress differently, and your therapist may change the plan, pause table sessions, or recommend a different approach based on how you respond.
Why exercise is part of the plan
Table sessions are paired with therapeutic exercise and education because building strength and movement control supports what you do outside the clinic. Exercise is selected based on your evaluation and progressed as your care continues.
A decompression plan at PT 1st includes movement-based care, not just table time. Your therapist will discuss which exercises may support your functional goals and recovery.
For more on exercise-based care, see: Therapeutic exercise.
For more on hands-on care, see: Manual therapy.
Where decompression is available
Spinal decompression and traction therapy is available at our Montebello clinic.
(323) 246-4616Open Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM